Microbiology Technician

We are recruiting for an early-stage start-up based in Oxford who have recently secured their Seed funding. They are building a platform that identifies microbes and their antimicrobial profile directly from clinical samples, enabling transformational change in the fight against sepsis and antibiotic resistance. The success of this technology will ensure a revolution in the microbiology diagnostic space and set the standard for tomorrow.

They are seeking a highly experienced Technician with expertise in microbiology, ideally relating to clinical samples, with a strong preference for experience working with blood specimens. The ideal candidate will bring significant experience from industry, demonstrating hands-on capabilities in assay development and validation.

About the role:

• Perform laboratory experiments and routine microbiology tasks under supervision of senior scientists.
• Support the development and testing of diagnostic assays according to established protocols.
• Prepare media, reagents, and consumables; maintain microbial cultures and cell banks.
• Handle and process clinical samples safely and in compliance with laboratory biosafety regulations.
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and electronic records of all activities.
• Assist with implementation and maintenance of laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Ensure the laboratory is kept clean, organized, and compliant with health and safety standards (including COSHH and risk assessments).
• Collaborate closely with scientists and engineers to support prototype testing and data collection.

About the candidate:

• Master’s degree (MSc) or equivalent in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or a related discipline with 2+ years’ experience working in an R&D laboratory
• Hands-on experience with microbiology techniques, including aseptic handling, culturing of microorganisms, and microscopy.
• Experience working with clinical samples such as whole blood (preferred).
• Good documentation and record-keeping practices in line with laboratory standards.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to rigorously follow standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Experience working in a regulated or In Vitro Diagnostic (IVD) environment is desirable but not essential.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills